In a grand celebration of academic excellence, Union Bank of Nigeria has rewarded outstanding secondary school teachers with millions of Naira at the prestigious Maltina Teacher of the Year Awards. The 11th edition of this notable event took place in Lagos, shining a spotlight on educators whose dedication has profoundly shaped students and communities nationwide.
Celebrating Educational Excellence
The ceremony, held last Friday, was a vibrant gathering of teachers, government officials, and key stakeholders in the education sector. The spotlight beamed on Ms Serah Yusuf, a 31-year-old teacher from Wisdom International School of Excellence in Abuja, who was crowned the overall winner. Her exceptional teaching methods and significant community engagement earned her the grand prize of ₦10 million.
The first runner-up position went to Ms Adeola Olufunke Akinsulire from Omole Senior Grammar School in Lagos, who received a cash award of ₦5 million. Meanwhile, Mr Chibuzor Amarikwa, a teacher from Deeper Life High School in Adamawa State, was honoured as the second runner-up and was awarded ₦3 million.
Union Bank's Commitment to Education
These awards form a core part of Union Bank’s Edu360 initiative, a comprehensive programme designed to strengthen the Nigerian education system. The initiative focuses on several key areas:
- Teacher development and training
- Improving school infrastructure
- Promoting digital literacy
- Encouraging inclusive learning practices
Speaking at the event, Mrs Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Union Bank, emphasized the bank's deep-rooted commitment. "Education remains at the heart of our operations," she stated. "Through Edu360, we are not just giving; we are building hope where resources are needed most. Celebrating teachers like Ms Yusuf and her colleagues is about restoring dignity to this noble profession and inspiring a new generation of educators."
A Broader Impact on National Development
The event served a dual purpose: it honoured individual teaching excellence while also reinforcing Union Bank's strategic commitment to advancing education in Nigeria. This mission aligns directly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all people.
By investing in educators, the Maltina Teacher of the Year Awards and the Edu360 initiative collectively aim to create a ripple effect. They not only motivate teachers but also contribute to building a more robust educational framework for the country's future generations.
